Grow Through It: 7 Healing Practices That Cultivate Resilience a 7-Day Reading Plan by Essie Fayeნიმუში

Psalm 1:3 NKJV

“He shall be like a tree

Planted by the rivers of water,

That brings forth its fruit in its season,

Whose leaf also shall not wither;

And whatever he does shall prosper.”

Nature has a lot to teach about vulnerability and openness. One day, I observed a huge peach tree spreading its branches toward heaven every which way as its roots dove into the soil for miles. I smiled as I admired God’s handiwork. This tree was boisterous, strong, rooted in the earth, and fruitful. It exemplified all that I hope to become spiritually and naturally.

Each morning, I commit to connecting with myself as I meditate on God’s Word. This healing practice of quiet honesty is my form of self-care.In Psalm 1:3, the writer compares the person grounded in faith to a tree planted by the rivers of water. This tree is connected to its source of nourishment. As a result, it is productive and in sync with God-ordained seasons. The leaves of the tree do not wither, but instead, they grow in good health. God’s Word declares that the person who meditates on the truth of God, day and night, is blessed. Truth feeds their soul, and they find pleasure in it. This person is also planted and grounded in faith, regardless of which way the wind blows and no matter what life storms arise.

As we practice connecting with ourselves honestly, we cultivate resilience in the face of difficulty. Just like deep roots anchor a tree, honesty provides strength and stability to our relationship with ourselves, with God, and with others. When life hits hard and we experience loss, disappointment, or pain, the power of truth liberates and sustains us. As a deeply rooted tree stands tall and unmovable amid strong storms, we too can grow stronger in our faith walk with Jesus Christ as we endure difficult experiences such as brokenness and trauma while practicing honesty. Jesus can help us break harmful patterns and practices and end toxic relationships in our lives once we acknowledge them. Then Jesus can give us wisdom to make good choices instead of bad ones.

Lord, help my faith in You to be deeply rooted and strong like a planted tree.

Grow Through It: What would it look like for us to stop living a lie? What would it look like to step out of the shadows and into the light and walk in truth, no matter how painful?

An honest word, rightly placed, can catapult us into our destiny and positively change our life's trajectory.